INDIA

Authorities in Imphal reported that a substantial force of security personnel, accompanied by senior police officials, swiftly mobilized to the conflict-ridden zones where conflicting armed factions had been intermittently engaging in intense gunfire over the past forty-eight hours. Upon the arrival of security forces, the armed group members retreated, abandoning the bodies at the scene. 

The conversation between Jaishankar and Cameron, conducted over the phone, occurred on the same day when the Iranian military seized a cargo vessel with Israeli affiliations near the Strait of Hormuz. Notably, the vessel housed 17 Indian crew members.

The NIA presented Mussavir Hussain Shazib and Abdul Matheen Taha before the magistrate court judge in Koramangala, Bengaluru. Senior counsel Prasanna Kumar represented the NIA during the proceedings.

Ravi Shankar underscored the significance of embracing one's cultural heritage, noting the resurgence of pride in India's millennia-old traditions, arts, and culture. He evoked the imagery of India's past grandeur as the "golden bird", asserting that the nation is once again on the path to reclaiming that illustrious status.

The advisory emphasizes the need for utmost caution and advises Indian nationals currently residing in Iran or Israel to register themselves with the Indian Embassies there. Additionally, they are urged to prioritize their safety and limit their movements to essential activities only.

Reflecting on India's relationships with neighboring nations, Jaishankar pointed out the challenges posed by Pakistan, attributing the complexities to historical events such as the incursion of tribal invaders into Kashmir in 1947. He emphasized that India's response to terrorism has evolved over time, noting the importance of unequivocally identifying Pakistan's involvement in fostering terrorism.

According to NIA sources, Shazib is responsible for placing the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at the cafe, while Taha orchestrated the planning, execution of the blast, and their subsequent evasion from law enforcement. The arrest was made possible after extensive surveillance of their movements in Assam and West Bengal, with Shazib carrying a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head.

Bhagwat highlighted the immense contributions made by individuals who dedicated themselves to the cause, stressing the concepts of 'tapasya' (penance/struggle) and 'samarpan' (dedication and sacrifices) that paved the way for this historic moment. He acknowledged the generous donations from people across the country, emphasizing the longstanding desire for a temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi, which spanned over 500 years.

The Maldives faced significant backlash following disparaging remarks about India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi made on social media by three Maldivian officials. This backlash ensued after Modi shared images and videos of the pristine Lakshadweep Islands on India's western coast on January 6. Consequently, numerous Indian travelers, including several celebrities, canceled their reservations and refrained from visiting the Maldives. The tourism arrival statistics mirrored this decline, with India slipping from its position as a top visitor country to the fifth and now the sixth position after January.

Cameron's appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to assume the position of British High Commissioner to India. The British government issued a statement stating, "Lindy Cameron CB OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of India in succession to Alex Ellis CMG, who will be transferring to another diplomatic service appointment."